'Bottas can take on Hamilton', says Prost

©Mercedes

Opinions diverge on whether Valtteri Bottas has what it takes to beat Lewis Hamilton, but Alain Prost is convinced in the Finn's ability to outrace the Mercedes stalwart.

With just one year to prove his case, Bottas will be going for his team mate's jugulars at the outset, but there aren't many who believe he can put one over Hamilton on a regular basis.

"I think Valtteri has a good chance against Lewis," quadruple world champion Prost told the Finnish newspaper Ilta Sanomat.

"Mercedes' philosophy is such that there is no first or second driver, and from Valtteri's point of view that's good.

"For sure it's hard to beat Lewis because he's been at Mercedes for many years, but Valtteri at least has a chance, sure," he added.

That's all Bottas wants, a chance...

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.